My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Second Epistle to the Church at Corinth

Chapter 2:12-17

We Triumph in Christ

12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s Gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,
13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother, but took my leave of them, and went away into Macedonia.
14 Now thanks be unto God, which always maketh us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savor of his knowledge by us in every place.
15 For we are unto God the sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them which perish.
16 To the one we are the savor of death, unto death, and to the other the savor of life, unto life: and who is sufficient for these things? (a)
17 For we are not as many, which make merchandise of the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God in the sight of God speak we in Christ.

(a) Editor’s thought - To a dying world it is no surprise that there are many to whom, when the Gospel is heard, are vehemently in denial as to the truth of God’s word, and His plan for salvation.  As Christians, we are look down upon by those of the world, because for them the Gospel is the shining light of their sin, and as such, cannot stand in that light.  Read John 15:18-25;  1 John 3:7-10, 13

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading 

The Second Epistle to the Church at Corinth

Chapter 2:1-11

Forgiving the Offender

1 But I determined thus in myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness.
2 For if I make you sorry, who is he then that should make me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?
3 And I wrote this same thing unto you, lest when I came, I should take heaviness of them of whom I ought to rejoice: this confidence have I in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.
4 For in great affliction, and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears: not that ye should be made sorry, but that ye might perceive the love which I have, specially unto you.
5 And if any hath caused sorrow, the same hath not made me sorry, but partly (lest I should more charge him) you all.
6 It is sufficient unto the same man, that he was rebuked of many. (a)
7 So that now contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest the same should be swallowed up with overmuch heaviness. 
8 Wherefore, I pray you, that you would confirm your love towards him. (b)
9 For this cause also did I write: that I might know the proof of you, whether ye would be obedient in all things.
10 To whom ye forgive anything, I forgive also: for verily if I forgave anything, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the sight of Christ,
11 Lest Satan should circumvent us: for we are not ignorant of his enterprises. (c)

(a) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 6 - Read Job 36:8-18
(b) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 8 - Read Matthew 18:21-22
(c) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 11 - Read 2 Corinthians 10:3-5;  Ephesians 6:11-13

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Second Epistle to the Church at Corinth

Chapter 1:15-24

15 And in this confidence was I minded first to come unto you, that ye might have had a double grace,
16 And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia, unto you, and to be led forth toward Judea of you.
17 When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or mind I those things which I mind, according to the flesh, that with me should be, Yea, yea, and Nay, nay?
18 Yea, God is faithful, that our word toward you, was not Yea, and Nay?
19 For the Son of God Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, that is, by me, and Silvanus, and Timothy, was not Yea, and Nay: but in him it was Yea. (a)
20 For all the promises of God in him are Yea, and are in him Amen, unto the glory of God through us.
21 And it is God which established us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us.
22 Who hath also sealed us, and hath given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
23 Now, I call God for a record unto my soul, that to spare you, I came not as yet unto Corinth.
24 Not that we have dominion over your faith, but we are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

(a) Editor’s notation - Silvanus = Silas

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Second Epistle to the Church at Corinth

Chapter 1:12-14

12 For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly pureness, and not in fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God we have had our conversation in the world, and most of all to youwards. (a)
13 For we write none other things unto you, than that ye read or else that ye acknowledge, and I trust ye shall acknowledge unto the end.
14 Even as ye have acknowledged us partly, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye are ours, in the day of our Lord Jesus.

(a) Editor’s thought - Just as is written in Isaiah 55:8-9, God’s thoughts and ways are not the thoughts and ways of man. Read also 2 Peter 1:16, 1 Corinthians 2:4

Evening Reflection

“Furthermore, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are worthy love, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” 

The Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians 4:8

I am departing from the current reflection study for this day only and ask that you ponder and meditate on the ultimate sermon as given to us by our Savior Jesus Christ. 

Matthew 5:1-12,  38-48

1 And when he saw the multitude, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came to him.
2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are they which hunger and thirst for righteousness: for they shall be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
10 Blessed are they which suffer persecution for righteousness’ sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 Blessed shall ye be when men revile you, and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you for my sake, falsely.
12 Rejoice and be glad, for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the Prophets which were before you.

38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.
39 But I say unto you, Resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also.
41 And whosoever will compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.
42 Give to him that asketh, and from him that would borrow of thee, turn not away.
43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy.
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies: bless them that curse you: do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which hurt you, and persecute you,
45 That ye may be the children of your father that is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to arise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and unjust.
46 For if ye love them, which love you, what reward shall you have? Do not the Publicans even the same?
47 And if ye be friendly to your brethren only, what singular thing do ye? do not even the Publicans likewise?
48 Ye shall therefore be perfect, as your Father which is in heaven, is perfect.

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Second Epistle to the Church at Corinth

Chapter 1:8-11

Paul give thanks to the saints at Corinth for prayers on his behalf

8 For brethren, we would not have you ignorant of our affliction, which came unto us in Asia, how we were pressed out of measure passing strength, so that we altogether doubted even of life.
9 Yea, we received the sentence of death in ourselves, because we should not rest in ourselves, but in God, which raised the dead.
10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver us: in whom we trust, that yet hereafter he will deliver us. (a)
11 So that ye labor together in prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us for many, thanks may be given by many persons for us. (b)

(a) Editor’s notation - Re: vss 9-10 Read Job 8-10; 19:25-26
(b) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 11 Read James 5:7-20

Evening Reflection

“Furthermore, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are worthy love, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” 

The Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians 4:8

The Excellency of Christ (Part 1a)

by Jonathan Edwards

Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

There is a conjunction of such excellencies in Christ as, in our manner of conceiving, are very diverse one from another. Such are the various divine perfections and excellencies that Christ is possessed of. Christ is a divine person, and therefore has all the attributes of God. The difference between these is chiefly relative, and in our manner of conceiving them. And those which, in this sense, are most diverse, meet in the person of Christ. I shall mention two instances. 

1. There do meet in Jesus Christ infinite highness and infinite condescension. 

Christ, as he is God, is infinitely great and high above all. He is higher than the kings of the earth; for he is King of kings, and Lord of lords. He is higher than the heavens, and higher than the highest angels of heaven. So great is he, that all men, all kings and princes, are as worms of the dust before him; all nations are as the drop of the bucket, and the light dust of the balance; yea, and angels themselves are as nothing before him. He is so high, that he is infinitely above any need of us; above our reach, that we cannot be profitable to him; and above our conceptions, that we cannot comprehend him. Proverbs. 30:4 "What is his name, and what is his Son's name, if thou canst tell?" Our understandings, if we stretch them never so far, cannot reach up to his divine glory. Job 11:8 "It is high as heaven, what canst thou do?" Christ is the Creator and great Possessor of heaven and earth. He is sovereign Lord of all. He rules over the whole universe, and doth whatsoever pleaseth him. His knowledge is without bound. His wisdom is perfect, and what none can circumvent. His power is infinite, and none can resist Him. His riches are immense and inexhaustible. His majesty is infinitely awful. 

And yet he is one of infinite condescension. None are so low or inferior, but Christ's condescension is sufficient to take a gracious notice of them. He condescends not only to the angels, humbling himself to behold the things that are done in heaven, but he also condescends to such poor creatures as men; and that not only so as to take notice of princes and great men, but of those that are of meanest rank and degree, "the poor of the world," James 2:5. Such as are commonly despised by their fellow creatures, Christ does not despise. I Corinthians. 1:28 "Base things of the world, and things that are despised, hath God chosen." Christ condescends to take notice of beggars Luke 16:22 and people of the most despised nations. In Christ Jesus is neither "Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free" (Colossians 3:11). He that is thus high condescends to take a gracious notice of little children Matthew 19:14. "Suffer little children to come unto me." Yea, which is more, his condescension is sufficient to take a gracious notice of the most unworthy, sinful creatures, those that have no good deservings, and those that have infinite ill deservings. 

Yea, so great is his condescension, that it is not only sufficient to take some gracious notice of such as these, but sufficient for every thing that is an act of condescension. His condescension is great enough to become their friend, to become their companion, to unite their souls to him in spiritual marriage. It is enough to take their nature upon him, to become one of them, that he may be one with them. Yea, it is great enough to abase himself yet lower for them, even to expose himself to shame and spitting; yea, to yield up himself to an ignominious death for them. And what act of condescension can be conceived of greater? Yet such an act as this, has his condescension yielded to, for those that are so low and mean, despicable and unworthy! 

Such a conjunction of infinite highness and low condescension, in the same person, is admirable. We see, by manifold instances, what a tendency a high station has in men, to make them to be of a quite contrary disposition. If one worm be a little exalted above another, by having more dust, or a bigger dunghill, how much does he make of himself! What a distance does he keep from those that are below him! And a little condescension is what he expects should be made much of, and greatly acknowledged. Christ condescends to wash our feet; but how would great men, (or rather the bigger worms,) account themselves debased by acts of far less condescension! 

2. There meet in Jesus Christ, infinite justice and infinite grace. 

As Christ is a divine person, he is infinitely holy and just, hating sin, and disposed to execute condign punishment for sin. He is the Judge of the world, and the infinitely just Judge of it, and will not at all acquit the wicked, or by any means clear the guilty. 

And yet he is infinitely gracious and merciful. Though his justice be so strict with respect to all sin, and every breach of the law, yet he has grace sufficient for every sinner, and even the chief of sinners. And it is not only sufficient for the most unworthy to show them mercy, and bestow some good upon them, but to bestow the greatest good; yea, it is sufficient to bestow all good upon them, and to do all things for them. There is no benefit or blessing that they can receive, so great but the grace of Christ is sufficient to bestow it on the greatest sinner that ever lived. And not only so, but so great is his grace, that nothing is too much as the means of this good. It is sufficient not only to do great things, but also to suffer in order to do it, and not only to suffer, but to suffer most extremely even unto death, the most terrible of natural evils; and not only death, but the most ignominious and tormenting, and every way the most terrible that men could inflict; yea, and greater sufferings than men could inflict, who could only torment the body. He had sufferings in his soul, that were the more immediate fruits of the wrath of God against the sins of those he undertakes for.

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Second Epistle of Paul to the Church at Corinth

Chapter 1:1-8

Greetings brethren in the name of Jesus Christ.

We have completed our reading of The Epistle to the Hebrews and are now beginning the reading of 2 Corinthians. Stay strong in the study of God’s word.

Opening salutations and Comments

1 PAUL an Apostle of JESUS Christ, by the will of God, and our brother Timothy, to the Church of God, which is at Corinth, with all the Saints, which are in all Achaia:
2 Grace be with you, and peace from God, our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort,
4 Which comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any affliction by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation aboundeth through Christ.
6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is wrought in the enduring of the same sufferings, which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.
7 And our hope is steadfast concerning you, in as much as we know, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation. (a)
8 For brethren, we would not have you ignorant of our affliction, which came unto us in Asia, how we were pressed out of measure passing strength, so that we altogether doubted even of life.

(a) Editor’s notation - Re; vs 7 - Read Hebrews 4:15-16 - Just as Christ Himself is aware of our sinful nature and failings, as He was likewise tempted by the devil while in the wilderness, so we need to be like Him, in that respect, that we who have gone through all divers of temptation and tribulations should be able to comfort others who are likewise proceeding through similar circumstances. In other words we should be able to empathize, with others, and bring comfort to them via the knowledge, that we have gone before them, and have overcome. 

Evening Reflection

“Furthermore, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are worthy love, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” 

The Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians 4:8

The Blood of Jesus Christ (Part 2)

by Billy Sunday

Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

Jesus' Atoning Blood

Jesus gave his life on the cross for any who will believe. We're not redeemed by silver or gold. Jesus paid for it with his blood (1 Peter 1:18). When some one tells you that your religion is a bloody religion and the Bible is a bloody book, tell them yes, Christianity is a bloody religion; the gospel is a bloody gospel; the Bible is a bloody book; the plan of redemption is bloody. It is. You take the blood of Jesus Christ out of Christianity and that book isn't worth the paper it is written on. It would be worth no more than your body with the blood taken out. Take the blood of Jesus Christ out and it would be a meaningless jargon and jumble of words.

If it weren't for the atoning blood you might as well rip the roofs off the churches and burn them down. They aren't worth anything. But as long as the blood is on the mercy seat (Lev. 16:14), the sinner can return, and by no other way. There is nothing else. It stands for the redemption. You are not redeemed by silver or gold, but by the blood of Jesus Christ. Though a man says to read good books, do good deeds, live a good life and you'll be saved, you'll be damned. That's what you will. All the books in the world won't keep you out of hell without the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. It's Jesus Christ or nothing for every sinner on God's earth.

Without it not a sinner will ever be saved. Jesus has paid for your sins with his blood. The doctrine of universal salvation is a lie. I wish every one would be saved, but they won't. You will never be saved if you reject the blood.

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading 

The Epistle to the Hebrews

Chapter 13:18-24

Prayers, Benediction, and Final Exhortation

18 Pray for us, for we are assured that we have a good conscience in all things, desiring to live honestly.
19 And I desire you somewhat the more earnestly, that ye so do, that I may be restored to you more quickly.
20 The God of peace that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting Covenant,
21 Make you perfect in all good works, to do his will, working in you that which is pleasant in his sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise forever and ever, Amen. (a)
22 I beseech you also, brethren, suffer the words of exhortation: for I have written unto you in few words.
23 Know that our brother Timothy is delivered, with whom (if he come shortly) I will see you.
24 Salute all them that have the oversight of you, and all the Saints. They of Italy salute you.

(a) Editor’s thought - The NKJ version uses the word “complete” in the place of “perfect”, however both convey the same thought in so far as it is hoped by the author that God will make you fit, whole and ready to take on the task of being His proxies here on earth to do His will as He deems necessary. 

Evening Reflection

“Furthermore, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are worthy love, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” 

The Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians 4:8

The Blood of Jesus Christ (Part 1)

by Billy Sunday

Edited by R.P. Woitowitz Sr. 

"For if the blood of bulls and of goats and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh" - Paul argued in his letter to the Hebrews "how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God." (Hebrews 9:13-14)

No more of this turtle-dove business, no more offering the blood of bullocks and heifers to cleanse from sin.

The atoning blood of Jesus Christ - that is the thing about which all else centers. I believe that more logical, illogical, idiotic, religious and irreligious arguments have been fought over this than all others. Now and then when a man gets a new idea of it, he goes out and starts a new denomination. He has a perfect right to do this under the thirteenth amendment, but he doesn't stop here. He makes war on all of the other denominations that do not interpret as he does. Our denominations have multiplied by this method until it would give one brain fever to try to count them all.

The atoning blood! And as I think it over I am reminded of a man who goes to England and advertises that he will throw pictures on the screen of the Atlantic coast of America. So he gets a crowd and throws pictures on the screen of high bluffs and rocky coasts and waves dashing against them, until a man comes out of the audience and brands him a liar and says that he is obtaining money under false pretense, as he has seen America and the Atlantic coast and what the other man is showing is not America at all. The men almost come to blows and then the other man says that, if the people will come tomorrow, he will show them real pictures of the coast. So the audience comes back to see what he will show, and he flashes on the screen pictures of a low coast line, with palmetto trees and banana trees and tropical foliage and he apologizes to the audience, but says these are the pictures of America. The first man calls him a liar and the people don't know which to believe. What was the matter with them?

They were both right and they were both wrong, paradoxical as it may seem. They were both right as far as they went, but neither went far enough. The first showed the coast line from New England to Cape Hatteras, while the second showed the coast line from Hatteras to Yucatan. They neither could show it all in one panoramic view, for it is so varied it could not be taken in one picture. 

God never intended to give you a picture of the world in one panoramic view. From the time of Adam and Eve down to the time Jesus Christ hung on the cross he was unfolding his views. When I see Moses leading the people out of bondage where they for years had bared their backs to the taskmaster's lash; when I see the lowing herds and the high priest standing before the altar severing the jugular vein of the rams and the bullocks; on until Christ cried out from the cross, "It is finished," (John 19:30) God was preparing the picture for the consummation of it in the atoning blood of Jesus Christ.

A sinner has no standing with God. He forfeits his standing when he commits sin and the only way he can get back is to repent and accept the atoning blood of Jesus Christ.

I have sometimes thought that Adam and Eve didn't understand as fully as we do when the Lord said; "Eat and you shall surely die." (Gen. 2:17) They had never seen any one die. They might have thought it simply meant a separation from God. But no sooner had they eaten and seen their nakedness than they sought to cover themselves, and it is the same today. When man sees himself in his sins, uncovered, he tries to cover himself in philosophy or some fake ideology. But God looked through the fig leaves and the foliage and God walked out in the field and slew the beasts and took their skins and wrapped them around Adam and Eve, and from that day to this when a man has been a sinner and has covered himself, it has been by and through faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Every Jew covered his sins and received pardon through the blood of the rams and bullocks and the doves.

An old infidel said to me once, "But I don't believe in atonement by blood. It doesn't come up to my ideas of what is right."

I said, "To perdition with your ideas of what is right. Do you think God is coming down here to consult you with your great intellect and wonderful brain, and find out what you think is right before he does it? " My, but you make me sick. You think that because you don't believe it that it isn't true.

I have read a great deal - not everything, mind you, for a man would go crazy if he tried to read everything - but I have read a great deal that has been written against the atonement from the infidel standpoint - Voltaire, Huxley, Spencer, Diderot, Bradlaugh, Paine, on down to Bob Ingersoll - and I have never found an argument that would stand the test of common sense and common reasoning. And if anyone tells me he has tossed on the scrap heap the plan of atonement by blood, I say, "What have you to offer that is better?" and until he can show me something that is better I'll nail my hopes to the cross.

http://youtu.be/m7CHddSMDXc

What can wash away my sin?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
What can make me whole again?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Refrain:
Oh! precious is the flow
That makes me white as snow;
No other fount I know,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

For my pardon, this I see,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
For my cleansing this my plea,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Nothing can for sin atone,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
Naught of good that I have done,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

This is all my hope and peace,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
This is all my righteousness,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Now by this I’ll overcome—
Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
Now by this I’ll reach my home—
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Glory! Glory! This I sing—
Nothing but the blood of Jesus,
All my praise for this I bring—
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Epistle to the Hebrews

Chapter 13:7-17

Conclusions Continued

7 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is mine helper, neither will I fear what man can do unto me.

8 Remember them which have the oversight of you, which have declared unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering what hath been the end of their conversation. Jesus Christ yesterday, and today, the same also is forever. (a)

9 Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines: for it is a good thing that the heart be stablished with grace, and not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. (b)

10 We have an altar, whereof they have no authority to eat, which serve in the Tabernacle.

11 For the bodies of those beasts whose blood is brought into the holy place by the high Priest for sin, are burnt without the camp.

12 Therefore even Jesus, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.

13 Let us go forth to him therefore out of the camp, bearing his reproach.

14 For here have we no continuing city: but we seek one to come.

15 Let us therefore by him offer the sacrifice of praise always to God, that is, the fruit of the lips, which confess his Name.

16 To do good, and to distribute forget not: for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

17 Obey them that have the oversight of you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give accounts, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

(a) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 8 - Read John 8:58; Hebrews 12:2; Revelation 1:8, 22:13

(b) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 9 - Read Matthew 24:11, 24; 2 Peter 2:1-3; 1 John 4:1-3

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Epistle to the Hebrews

Chapter 13:1-6

Concluding instructions

1 Let brotherly love continue.
2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have received Angels into their houses unawares. (a)
3 Remember them that are in bonds, as though ye were bound with them: and them that are in affliction, as if ye were also afflicted in the body.
4 Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
5 Let your conversation be without covetousness, and be content with those things that ye have, for he hath said,
6 I will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:

(a) Editor’s notation - Re: vss 1&2 - Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

Evening Reflection

“Furthermore, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are worthy love, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” 

The Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians 4:8

Ad Episcopus Aegypti et Libyae - Athanasius

Chapter One Part Four

Edited by RPW Sr. 

It profits not to receive part of Scripture, and reject part.

For whence do some receive the Gospel while they reject the Law? For the New Testament arose out of the Old, and bears witness to the Old; if then they reject this, how can they receive what proceeds from it? Thus Paul was an Apostle of the Gospel, 'which God promised afore by His prophets in the holy Scriptures Romans 1:2:' and our Lord Himself said, 'ye search the Scriptures, for they are they which testify of Me John 5:39.' How then shall they confess the Lord unless they first search the Scriptures which are written concerning Him? And the disciples say that they have found Him, 'of whom Moses and the Prophets did write John 1:45.' And what is the Law to the Sadducees if they receive not the Prophets ? For God who gave the Law, Himself promised in the Law that He would raise up Prophets also, so that the same is Lord both of the Law and of the Prophets, and he that denies the one must of necessity deny the other also. And why do they bring them forward, men who say that the Word of God is a creature, and like the Gentiles 'serve the creature more than' God 'the Creator Romans 1:25?' Thus each of these heresies, in respect of the peculiar impiety of its invention, has nothing in common with the Scriptures. And their advocates are aware of this, that the Scriptures are very much, or rather altogether, opposed to the doctrines of every one of them; but for the sake of deceiving the more simple sort (such as are those of whom it is written in the Proverbs, 'The simple believes every word Proverbs 14:15),' they pretend like their 'father the devil John 8:44 ' to study and to quote the language of Scripture, in order that they may appear by their words to have a right belief, and so may persuade their wretched followers to believe what is contrary to the Scriptures. Assuredly in every one of these heresies the devil has thus disguised himself, and has suggested to them words full of craftiness. The Lord spoke concerning them, that 'there shall arise false Christs and false prophets, so that they shall deceive many Matthew 24:24.' Accordingly the devil has come, speaking by each and saying, 'I am Christ, and the truth is with me;' and he has made them, one and all, to be liars like himself. And strange it is, that while all heresies are at variance with one another concerning the mischievous inventions which each has framed, they are united together only by the common purpose of lying. For they have one and the same father that has sown in them all the seeds, of falsehood. Wherefore the faithful Christian and true disciple of the Gospel, having grace to discern spiritual things, and having built the house of his faith upon a rock, stands continually firm and secure from their deceits. But the simple person, as I said before, that is not thoroughly grounded in knowledge, such an one, considering only the words that are spoken and not perceiving their meaning, is immediately drawn away by their wiles. Wherefore it is good and needful for us to pray that we may receive the gift of discerning spirits, so that every one may know, according to the precept of John, whom he ought to reject, and whom to receive as friends and of the same faith. Now one might write at great length concerning these things, if one desired to go into details respecting them; for the impiety and perverseness of heresies will appear to be manifold and various, and the craft of the deceivers to be very terrible. But since holy Scripture is of all things most sufficient for us, therefore recommending to those who desire to know more of these matters, to read the Divine word.

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Epistle to the Hebrews

Chapter 12:25-29

Harken ye to the Heavenly Voice

25 See that ye despise not him that speaketh: for if they escaped not which refused him, that spake on earth: much more shall we not escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven.
26 Whose voice then shook the earth, and now hath declared, saying, Yet once more will I shake, not the earth only, but also heaven. (a)
27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things which are shaken, as of things which are made with hands, that the things which are not shaken, may remain.
28 Wherefore seeing we receive a kingdom, which cannot be shaken, let us have grace whereby we may so serve God, that we may please him with reverence and fear. (b)
29 For even our God is a consuming fire. (c)

(a) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 26 - Read Haggai 2:5-9 - Christ will build His Church anew, and it will be a temple for all people of all nations and tongues to come to worship. 
(b) Editor’s thought - A kingdom that cannot be shaken is one that is built on the foundation that is of Jesus Christ. - See  Matthew 7:24-26
(c) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 29 - Read Hebrews 10:31; 2 Peter 3:1-7

My Daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Epistle to the Hebrews

Chapter 12:18-24

18 For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, nor unto burning fire, nor to blackness and darkness, and tempest,
19 Neither unto the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words, which they that heard it, excused themselves, that the word should not be spoken to them any more.
20 (For they were not able to abide that which was commanded, yea, though a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart:
21 And so terrible was the sight which appeared, that Moses said, I fear and quake.)
22 But ye are come unto the mount Sion, and to the city of the living God, the celestial Jerusalem, and to the company of innumerable Angels.
23 And to the assembly and congregation of the first born, which are written in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men, (a)
24 And to Jesus the Mediator of the new Testament, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaketh better things than that of Abel. (b)

(a) Editor’s Notation - Re: vs 23 - James 1:18
(b) Editor’s Notation - Re: vs 24 1 Timothy 2:5

Evening Reflection

“Furthermore, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are worthy love, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” 

The Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians 4:8

I found this one day online, and copied it to my documents. To be honest I don't know who wrote it. It was listed as text for an audio sermon. Note the part wherein the speaker(?) has broken up two words for pronunciation. 

The One the Only Way

Greetings in the Name of Jesus Christ to all my Brethren:

Today friends, I am going going to make two statements, both of which hold true. 

One – You will never, ever be good enough to work your way into heaven
Two – You will never ever be bad enough to be excluded

Now, you may be asking me, friend how can this be so? I can understand perhaps the first one, but the second one, well doesn't God want only good people? Friends, allow me to say that first of all God wants the sinners, He wants them to repent, and come back to Him, so for the latter part of your query, the answer is no, God doesn't want only good people. In fact, if all God wanted were good people there wouldn't be any people God could have, because, there would be none that could qualify as God wants them to be as He is in His eyes. The Scriptures say, that there is none that does good, no, not one. As for the first part, well, friends I have sort of just answered it, you cannot work your way into heaven, you're just not going to be good enough to do it. I don't care how many lil old ladies you help across the streets. I don't care how many times you've given alms to the less fortunate. It doesn't matter how many soup kitchens you've helped in to feed the homeless, or how much you put in the collection plate every Sunday. None of that is going to get you to the kingdom. 

I know I'm sort of all over the map here, but I am going back to the second statement again. What I mean is that you'll never be so bad that God cannot save you. Again as the scriptures states, His arm is not shortened that He cannot do, what he has said He will do. And what he will do is grant you grace and mercy. 

Now, both statements are conditional. This is to say that God has a certain requirement that MUST be met before you'll be “good enough” for Him. That one condition, is that a person confesses their sins and asks God for forgiveness, and accepts the sacrifice of His Son Christ Jesus as savior. For as is written in the Epistle of James that He Himself is the propitiation (Pro-pish e ay shun) for the sins of all people. This is to say, that He, Jesus Christ made atonement for our iniquities (In Nick quit tees). 

Now friends, If you're hearing my voice, I ask you to join me in a prayer of confession and acceptance. But before we start, I want you to close your eyes, and picture yourself viewing the crucifixion. You have followed Jesus as He walked to His death. He has been beaten, scourged, spat upon, and treated with all the cruelty that the Romans could muster. You watched him being nailed to the cross, and as you stand there at the foot of that cross, a drop of blood hits you. Friend it is this blood that is going to make you right with God. It is this blood that is going to wash you clean. It is this blood that is being shed for your sins, so that you might live in the Kingdom. Would you pray with me now:

Heavenly Father, I come to you today as an unclean sinner. I confess them to you and ask your forgiveness. I accept your Son Jesus as my savior, and invite Him into my heart. 

Friend, if you've prayed with me today, and meant it with all your heart, then I am proud to welcome you as member of God's family. The next step you must now take, is to find a church, big or small, and start to fellowship with others. Read and study your Bible daily. 

In closing, I am leaving with a thought for all that have listened to this audio. There is a singer by name of Billy Joel, whose lyrics include the line;
“I'd rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints, the sinners are a lot more fun” Friends, this person doesn't know what he's missing.

My daily Meditation

Today’s Reading

The Epistle to the Hebrews

Chapter 12:12-17

Renewing the Spirit

12 Wherefore lift up your hands which hang down, and your weak knees,
13 And make straight steps unto your feet, lest that which is halting, be turned out of the way, but let it rather be healed. (a)
14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without the which no man shall see the Lord. (b)
15 Take heed, that no man fall away from the grace of God: let no root of bitterness spring up and trouble you, lest thereby many be defiled.
16 Let there be no fornicator, or profane person as Esau, which for one portion of meat sold his birthright.
17 For ye know how that afterward also when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place to repentance, though he sought that blessing with tears.

(a) Editor’s notation - Re: vss 12-13 - see Hebrews 12:1-2, as each strengthens the other. Also read 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
(b) Editor’s notation - Re: vs 14 - see Romans 9:17-19

Evening Reflection

“Furthermore, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are worthy love, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” 

The Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians 4:8

I should preface this by stating this is a very long series of study for evening reflections. If anyone is interested I can provide a link upon request, wherein one might take the time to read for themselves the study in it’s entirety. 

Ad Episcopus Aegypti et Libyae - Athanasius

Chapter One Part Three

Edited by RPW Sr. 

 3. Satan pretending to be holy, is detected by the Christian (continued)

And although, again, he conceal his natural falsehood, and pretend to speak truth with his lips; yet are we are not ignorant of his devices 2 Corinthians 2:11,' but are able to answer him in the words spoken by the Spirit against him; 'But unto the ungodly, said God, why do you preach My laws?' and, 'Praise is not seemly in the mouth of a sinner. ' For even though he speak the truth, the deceiver is not worthy of credit. And whereas Scripture showed this, when relating his wicked artifices against Eve in Paradise, so the Lord also reproved him—first in the mount, when He laid open 'the folds of his breast-plate ,' and showed who the crafty spirit was, and proved that it was not one of the saints , but Satan that was tempting Him. For He said, 'Get behind Me Satan; for it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve Matthew 4:10.' And again, when He put a curb in the mouths of the demons that cried after Him from the tombs. For although what they said was true, and they lied not then, saying, 'You are the Son of God,' and 'the Holy One of God Matthew 8:29; Mark 1:24;' yet He would not that the truth should proceed from an unclean mouth, and especially from such as them, lest under pretence thereof they should mingle with it their own malicious devices, and sow these also while men slept. Therefore He suffered them not to speak such words, neither would He have us to suffer such, but has charged us by His own mouth, saying, 'Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheeps' clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves Matthew 7:15;' and by the mouth of His Holy Apostles, 'Believe not every spirit 1 John 4:1.' Such is the method of our adversary's operations; and of the like nature are all these inventions of heresies, each of which has for the father of its own device the devil, who changed and became a murderer and a liar from the beginning. But being ashamed to profess his hateful name, they usurp the glorious Name of our Saviour 'which is above every name Philippians 2:9,' and deck themselves out in the language of Scripture, speaking indeed the words, but stealing away the true meaning thereof; and so disguising by some artifice their false inventions, they also become the murderers of those whom they have led astray.

Editor’s thoughts - This is my greatest fear in the Christian world today. There are many, who, no matter how sincere they may be, are diluting the Word of God. Many denominations are bowing to demands of man to be tolerant and accepting of all divers of sin. This confounds and perverts what God says on many subjects. Are we to love the sinner? Yes with all certainty, but we are also to alert them of their sin, and to guide them from their ways. In the Gospel of John we read in chapter 8:11;
 “She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said, Neither do I condemn thee: go and sin no more.”
We cannot condemn, but we can discern, and correct. 

As mentioned above, too many are not preaching from the perspective of God’s Word.  There seems to be a “new” gospel, that suggests, that to coin a phrase “it’s all good” just be a good person, and you’ll make it.  This is NOT what God has said, it is ONLY through the blood of Jesus that we can come through salvation.